The Science Behind the Response: What It Really Takes to Combat Modern Cyber Threats with Devon Ackerman

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Stepping behind the digital crime scene tape with Devon Ackerman, Global Head of Digital Forensics and Incident Response at Cyber Reason, reveals what it truly takes to excel in the high-stakes world of cybersecurity response.

Drawing from his remarkable 15-year journey—from FBI Special Agent investigating national security threats to leading global incident response teams handling over 3,000 engagements annually—Devon shares rare insights into the evolution of cyber threats and the science of responding to them. "Every single investigation," he explains, "if you're not learning something, you're not paying attention."

The conversation explores how Devin maintains perspective during critical incidents, having witnessed both life-threatening FBI emergencies and corporate crises. This unique viewpoint shapes his leadership philosophy: "If we can figure out how a nation-state threat actor stayed in a client's network for six months undetected, I'm pretty sure we can handle someone's workload while they go take care of a family member."

For professionals in high-pressure roles, Devon's wellness strategies offer practical guidance—from finding moments to completely disconnect (including trips to remote areas without cell coverage) to protecting time on flights for mental decompression. His approach to work-life balance demonstrates how even those responding to the most severe digital emergencies can maintain equilibrium.

Whether you're considering a career in cybersecurity or seeking leadership insights from someone who's navigated both government and private-sector crisis response, Devon's story provides a compelling blueprint for excellence under pressure while preserving what matters most.

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